Stellantis, the parent company of the Jeep brand, has publicly criticized two TikTokers after a viral video surfaced showing them forcefully removing interior components of the Jeep Recon electric vehicle at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show in late November. The video, which quickly spread across social media, sparked a debate about how prototype vehicles should be treated at public exhibitions.
Video of TikTokers pulling off interior panels of the Jeep Recon at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show.
The video was posted by “The Middle Lane,” a Los Angeles-based channel. In the minute-long clip, the TikTokers criticized the build quality of the showcased Jeep Recon, expressing disappointment for a vehicle priced at $65,000.
The all-new Jeep Recon electric SUV on display at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show.
The footage shows the TikTokers removing and reattaching plastic interior parts, including panels around the center console and above the digital instrument cluster. They also highlighted uneven gaps between door panel trims, shook the infotainment screen, and simulated off-road conditions by pulling on the front passenger seat handle.
TikTokers point out gaps between interior panels of the Jeep Recon.
TikTokers forcefully remove interior panels of the electric vehicle.
The video garnered over 1.1 million views and 2,300 comments on TikTok since November 22. It reportedly appeared on YouTube and Instagram but has since been removed from both platforms.
Following the video’s circulation, Stellantis clarified that the criticized vehicle was a pre-production prototype, hand-assembled for display purposes and not representative of the final production quality. The company labeled the TikTokers’ actions as “destructive.”
“The vehicle in question is a pre-production prototype, handcrafted exclusively for unveilings and events to showcase design concepts. Such prototypes are not intended to reflect the quality, durability, or finish of mass-produced vehicles,” Stellantis stated in an official release.
In an email to the Detroit Free Press, Kaileen Connelly, Stellantis’ Vice President of North American Communications, added: “The act of disassembling the all-new Jeep Recon on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show was both destructive and unprofessional.”
Detroit Free Press interviewed Luke Miani, founder of “The Middle Lane,” who expressed surprise at the video’s reach and the ensuing debate. Miani stated their intent was simply to share “perspectives on various vehicles.”
Responding to Stellantis’ claims, Miani countered: “I deny any allegation of destruction, as the video clearly shows loose clips and parts that could be easily removed by hand without damage.” He added that he eagerly awaits the production version of the Jeep Recon, hoping for “the expected improvements in build quality.”
Interior of the Jeep Recon.
Public reaction to the video has been mixed. Some criticized Stellantis for the perceived lack of craftsmanship, while others defended the company, noting the vehicle’s pre-production status and intended display purpose. The incident also sparked discussions on Reddit, where some condemned the influencers’ behavior, while others suggested automakers should be more cautious about who interacts with display vehicles.
The Jeep Recon features dual electric motors on both axles, delivering all-wheel drive. Combined, the motors produce 650 horsepower and 840 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. It uses a 100 kWh, 400-volt battery, offering an estimated EPA range of 400 km.
Production of the Jeep Recon is set to begin in early 2026 at Stellantis’ Toluca plant in Mexico. The first units will be delivered to North American customers shortly after, with global sales starting in Q4 2026. The initial Moab edition, exclusive to the US and Canada, will start at $65,000, with more affordable variants to follow.
VinFast EC Van Unveiled: The Urban Electric Compact Cargo Vehicle Revolution
VinFast expands its electric vehicle lineup with the EC Van, a compact cargo van designed specifically for urban delivery needs.
“Mazda 6e Skyrockets in Southeast Asia’s Largest Market: Will Vietnam Be Next?”
The price of the Mazda 6e in the Thai market has yet to be announced, but it is anticipated to start above 1 million Baht (approximately $24,000 USD).
Wuling Xingguang 560 Unveiled: Mitsubishi-Inspired Design Starting at Just 209 Million VND
The Wuling Xingguang 560 made its official debut at the ASEAN International Auto Show in Nanning, Guangxi Province, China.
Omoda 4 Set for Assembly in Vietnam: A Lamborghini Urus-Inspired Design
Omoda 4 is set to commence local assembly at the company’s Hung Yen facility starting June 2026, as per the outlined schedule.
BYD Reaches Milestone: 70,000th Vehicle Rolls Off the Assembly Line in Thailand
BYD’s manufacturing plant in Rayong, Thailand, has reached a significant milestone by rolling out its 70,000th vehicle, just over a year since its operations began.
